Fuzhou

Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, blends riverfront charm, ancient lanes, and a vibrant tea culture. Known as the “City of Banyans,” it offers leafy boulevards, Ming–Qing heritage, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old alleys, tasting delicate fish balls, or gazing at the Min River, Fuzhou greets every traveler with history and warmth. From Sanfang Qixiang’s traditional courtyards to the bustling markets of Shangxiahang, the city unfolds as a living museum of southern Chinese culture.

Location of Fuzhou in China

Top Attractions in Fuzhou: Must-Visit Sights

Fuzhou’s highlights stretch from well-preserved historical quarters to scenic mountain landscapes. Stroll the Sanfang Qixiang (Three Lanes and Seven Alleys) for a glimpse of Ming and Qing life, or wander Shangxiahang Historic District for lively shops and snacks. Admire West Lake Park and its classical gardens, then venture to Drum Mountain (Gushan) for sweeping city views. A short trip away, Pingtan Island offers turquoise seas, fishing villages, and windswept coastlines that connect Fuzhou to the world.

Three Lanes And Seven Alleys

A historic district in Fuzhou featuring Ming and Qing dynasty residences, cultural heritage, and charming alleys. It’s known as the “living fossil of Chinese urban history and culture.”

Shang Xia Hang

One of Fuzhou’s oldest commercial streets, Shangxiahang blends ancient architecture, traditional shops, and vibrant markets. It showcases Fuzhou’s maritime culture, folk traditions, and centuries of thriving trade and community life.

What to Eat in Fuzhou: A Food Lover’s Guide

Fuzhou cuisine is delicate, aromatic, and slightly sweet, famed for its light broths and seafood. Don’t miss Fuzhou fish balls with savory pork filling, the festive Eight-Treasure Rice, or the crispy Oyster Cake (Hai Li Bing). Traditional banquets feature Rouyan (pork dumplings with thin wrappers) and taro-based desserts, while local night markets tempt with fried meat cakes and steaming rice snacks. Every bite carries the subtle flavors of Fujian’s coastal heritage.

Fuzhou Rouyan

A signature Fuzhou delicacy made with pork filling wrapped in a paper-thin dough of pork starch. Known for its tender texture, delicate taste, and rich cultural heritage in local banquets.

Fuzhou Taro Paste

A traditional dessert made from mashed taro, mixed with lard and sugar. Smooth, fragrant, and sweet, it’s a beloved Fuzhou specialty often served at family gatherings and celebrations.

Fuzhou Mishí

A soft, steamed rice-based snack unique to Fuzhou. Lightly sweet and chewy, it reflects local traditions of rice food culture, offering both a nostalgic and comforting culinary experience.

Fuzhou Fried Meat Cake

A savory dish featuring ground pork mixed with flour, pan-fried into golden patties. Crispy outside and tender inside, it’s a popular street food showcasing Fuzhou’s home-style flavors.

Fuzhou Eight-Treasure Rice

A festive dessert made from glutinous rice topped with eight kinds of candied fruits, nuts, and sweet syrup. It symbolizes good fortune, happiness, and prosperity during traditional celebrations.

Oyster Cake

A crispy golden snack filled with oysters, pork, vegetables, and batter. Famous in Fuzhou street markets, it offers a rich seafood flavor and crunchy texture, loved by locals and travelers.

How to Get Around Fuzhou: Transportation Tips

Fuzhou’s growing metro system (Line 1, 2, and more expanding) makes it easy to zip between districts. Public buses and affordable taxis cover the city, while Fuzhou Changle International Airport (FOC) connects travelers with destinations across Asia. High-speed trains from Fuzhou Railway Station and Fuzhou South whisk you to Xiamen in under an hour and to Shanghai in about four hours. Ride-hailing apps and shared bikes fill in the gaps for flexible urban exploration.

Where to Stay in Fuzhou: Best Hotels & Neighborhoods

Luxury seekers can stay in riverside hotels near Gulou District, close to Sanfang Qixiang’s historic atmosphere. Business travelers prefer Cangshan District, with modern malls and convenient metro links. Budget-friendly guesthouses dot the old quarters of Taijiang and Shangxiahang, while nature lovers can base themselves near Drum Mountain for hiking and temple visits. Resorts on Pingtan Island offer a peaceful escape with sea views.

Plan Your Perfect Trip to Fuzhou

With attractions, food, and lodging covered, create an itinerary that balances heritage and leisure. Spend mornings wandering shaded alleys, afternoons sipping jasmine tea by West Lake, and evenings sampling seafood at bustling night markets. Don’t miss a boat ride along the Min River or a hike up Gushan’s stone trails. Capture banyan-lined boulevards glowing in sunset light—memories that make Fuzhou unforgettable.

Essential Fuzhou Travel Tips

The best time to visit is spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) when temperatures are mild. Summers can be hot and humid with typhoon risk, while winters are cool but comfortable. Bring cash or mobile payment apps like Alipay/WeChat Pay for small eateries. Avoid traveling during Golden Week (early October) when crowds peak. An umbrella is useful year-round for sudden showers.

Basic Facts About Fuzhou

Area and Population

Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, covers about 12,153 sq km. It is an important coastal city and a gateway for China’s Maritime Silk Road. The permanent population is approximately 8.3 million.

Here’s a breakdown by district:

  • Gulou District: ~36 sq km, ~1.0 million people
  • Taijiang District: ~55 sq km, ~0.7 million people
  • Cangshan District: ~142 sq km, ~1.2 million people
  • Mawei District: ~141 sq km, ~0.3 million people
  • Jin’an District: ~136 sq km, ~0.7 million people
  • Changle District: ~648 sq km, ~0.7 million people
  • Minhou County: ~2,300 sq km, ~1.1 million people
  • Lianjiang County: ~1,160 sq km, ~0.6 million people
  • Luoyuan County: ~1,170 sq km, ~0.3 million people
  • Minqing County: ~1,500 sq km, ~0.5 million people
  • Yongtai County: ~2,240 sq km, ~0.4 million people
  • Pingtan County: ~371 sq km, ~0.5 million people

Note: Population figures are based on latest estimates and may vary slightly.

Climate and Weather

Fuzhou has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. It is known for long frost-free periods and frequent typhoon influence in summer.

Here’s what to expect month by month:

  • January: 9–15°C; mild, damp, occasional rain
  • February: 10–16°C; cool, light drizzle
  • March: 13–19°C; warmer, spring rains
  • April: 17–23°C; mild, blossoming season
  • May: 21–28°C; hot, beginning of rainy season
  • June: 24–31°C; rainy, very humid
  • July: 26–34°C; hottest month, typhoon risk
  • August: 26–33°C; hot, humid, occasional storms
  • September: 24–31°C; still warm, more comfortable
  • October: 20–27°C; pleasant, great for travel
  • November: 15–22°C; mild, drier air
  • December: 11–18°C; cool, overcast, light rain

Best travel season: March to May, and September to November.

Postal Codes and Area Code

Here are the postal and telephone codes for major districts in Fuzhou:

  • Gulou District: Postal code 350001, area code 0591
  • Taijiang District: Postal code 350004, area code 0591
  • Cangshan District: Postal code 350007, area code 0591
  • Mawei District: Postal code 350015, area code 0591
  • Jin’an District: Postal code 350011, area code 0591
  • Changle District: Postal code 350200, area code 0591
  • Minhou County: Postal code 350100, area code 0591
  • Lianjiang County: Postal code 350500, area code 0591
  • Luoyuan County: Postal code 350600, area code 0591
  • Minqing County: Postal code 350800, area code 0591
  • Yongtai County: Postal code 350700, area code 0591
  • Pingtan County: Postal code 350400, area code 0591